YOU, Inc. is grateful for the strategic, long-time support of the United Way of Central MA for our Dynamy John S. Laws Youth Academy program. Most recently, we were the grateful beneficiary of two generous grants, which will position us to provide vital programming for the remainder of the summer, and throughout the next academic year.

A grant of $10,000 from the United Way’s After School and Out-of-School Time (ASOST) initiative will enable us to continue a series of specialty workshops that address lingering behavioral health, family, and academic issues directly related to the COVID-19 pandemic. All workshops and counseling sessions conclude with the dissemination of resources for ongoing support – including hotlines, counseling, referrals, tools and takeaway strategies and resources.

At the same time, the United Way’s significant annual program grant in the amount of $35,000 will ensure the continuation of the full complement of Youth Academy services. Youth Academy is a five-year, after-school leadership and college access program for promising, first-generation high school students with strong academic potential and college aspirations. The program’s comprehensive approach – combing academic supports with community service, internships, and assistance with all aspects of college planning – helps to ensure students’ acceptance to college and persistence to a degree. Together with the United Way, we are working to ensure that all students have equal access to an exceptional education, leading to a rewarding career.